Intern - Therapeutic Recreation

At NSSRA, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to play. Formed in 1970 with that goal in mind, we were the first Special Recreation Association in the country, offering programs and services for children, teens, and adults with disabilities. We are similar to a park district; however, we only serve residents in our partner communities with special needs.
 
Fifty years later, we serve approximately 1,800 individuals with disabilities throughout the year in the northern suburbs of Chicago. We’re all about creating an environment of belonging through play, and we want you to be a part of our team!
 
ABOUT THE JOB
As a Therapeutic Recreation Intern you will be introduced to and participate in all areas of programming and administration. While being supervised by a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS), you will learn and accomplish a variety of job assignments as outlined by National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification (NCTRC). This internship will give you an opportunity to implement theories learned in the classroom, growing as a professional beyond the academic setting. As an Intern, you are responsible for the following tasks:

• Attend required meetings as determined by Recreation Manager.


• Actively engage and supervise individuals with disabilities.


• Maintain safety of participants and staff at all times.


• Communicate professionally and consistently with participants, parents, fellow team members and the general public when needed.


• Develop skills to lead programs and provide direct guidance and supervision to seasonal employees.


• Assess, plan, implement and evaluate recreation programs.


• Drive agency vehicles and transport program participants.


• Develop a special project that will benefit both you and NSSRA.


• Work alongside Recreation Manager to complete and maintain reports, files and paperwork as necessary.


• Fulfill other duties as assigned.

ABOUT YOU

• In the process of obtaining a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in therapeutic recreation, special education, adaptive physical education or a related field and working to complete NCTRC (National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification) requirements to sit for the exam. Knowledge of the recreation needs of people of all abilities.


• Demonstrate strong academic performance and provide references from a university internship supervisor.


• Desire to learn and grow as a professional and work in a team-oriented environment.


• A valid Driver’s License and personal transportation to accomplish position responsibilities.

  
NSSRA’S EXPECTATIONS OF YOU
This is a leadership position. As such, NSSRA expects all employees to perform their jobs professionally in the following ways:

• Exhibit positive and effective customer service for participants, families, team members and the community.


• Become well-versed in NSSRA’s mission, vision and values.


• Communicate clearly and professionally both verbally and in writing.


• Know and follow personnel, safety, fiscal and agency policies and procedures.


• Coach, mentor, guide, lead and respond to the needs of co-workers and participants with a positive attitude and approach.


• Prioritize responsibilities through strong time management and organizational skills, producing quality work consistently and meeting all deadlines.


• Handle confidential information discreetly and professionally.


• Adapt to changes in all aspects of the job, including assigned tasks, scheduling and new or unforeseen circumstances.


• General proficiency in Microsoft Office and able to competently create and maintain documents, budgets, and file systems.


• Complete Internship requirements.

We are looking for candidates who are as highly motivated, enthusiastic, and professional as we are. If you’re ready to be a part of a diverse team of professionals, we want to hear from you!
 
THE FINE PRINT
Candidates must complete an Illinois background check and hold a valid Driver’s License with personal transportation to accomplish position responsibilities. This position is 40 hours per week, paid minimum wage for actual program hours. Work schedule will vary and will be communicated at the beginning of the internship.  Scheduling is assigned by program season. Must be able to commit to 560 hours in 14 weeks of internship.  NSSRA has one (1) opening for each season, spring, summer, and fall.  

ANNUAL APPLICATION TIMELINE 

Spring Internship

Application Open: August 1 - October 15

Summer Internship

Application Open: December 1 - February 15

Fall Internship 

Application Open: February 1 - April 15

PAY

Starting at $16.00 an hour

BENEFITS

• Flexible schedule


• Referral program

 
NSSRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.